How to Format Videos in CapCut for Instagram Reels and Stories

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Want your videos to shine on Instagram Reels and Stories? Don’t worry! Formatting videos in CapCut is super easy and fun. Whether you’re new to CapCut or looking to get better with your edits, this guide will help you step-by-step. Let’s get started.

Why CapCut?

CapCut is a free and powerful app for video editing. It works on mobile and desktop. Most importantly—it’s made for creators like you! It’s perfect for editing videos for social media, especially Instagram.

Know the Instagram Formats First

Before jumping into CapCut, you need to know what Instagram uses. Reels and Stories aren’t just any size. They need special dimensions so they don’t get cropped or look weird.

  • Instagram Reels: 1080 x 1920 pixels, vertical format (9:16 ratio)
  • Instagram Stories: Same as reels – 1080 x 1920 pixels

Now that we know that, let’s dive into CapCut magic!

Step 1: Start a New Project

Open CapCut and tap on “New Project.”

Choose the video you want to use. You can also select multiple clips if you want to string them together. After your clips load into the timeline, it’s time to set the right size.

Step 2: Set the Right Canvas

This is super important. If your canvas size is wrong, your content won’t fill Instagram’s screen correctly.

To fix it:

  1. Tap the clip on your timeline.
  2. At the bottom, scroll to find “Edit” and then tap “Format.”
  3. Select 9:16 format. That’s the perfect vertical size for both Reels and Stories.

Pro tip: Pinch to zoom in or move your video to fit the screen the way you want!

Step 3: Trim and Cut

You don’t want super long videos for Reels or Stories. Keep it short and sweet!

Reels: Instagram allows up to 90 seconds.

Stories: Each story segment is 15 seconds, but you can post multiple.

To trim your clip in CapCut:

  1. Select your video in the timeline.
  2. Use the split tool to cut the beginning or end.
  3. Delete any parts you don’t want.

Fun tip: Keep your video moving fast with cuts, transitions, and cool effects!

Step 4: Add Music and Sound

Music makes everything better, right?

CapCut gives you two easy options:

  • Use built-in tracks: Tap on “Audio” → “Sounds.”
  • Extract audio: You can use audio from another video. CapCut will pull it out for you!

Remember: When you upload to Instagram, you can also mute your video and use Instagram’s music choices instead.

Step 5: Add Text That Pops

Words are powerful. Use text to keep people watching!

To add text:

  1. Tap “Text” → “Add Text.”
  2. Type in your message and choose styles and animations.
  3. Set how long it appears using the timeline.

Make sure your text is visible:

  • Use bold colors.
  • Place it in the center or safe zones.
  • Avoid the top (username) and bottom (like/comment) areas of Instagram screens.

Step 6: Use Filters and Effects

Give your video a vibe! Filters and effects help make your video aesthetic and eye-catching.

Try these:

  • Effects: Add glitch, retro, sparkle, and more
  • Filters: Adjust colors and lighting for a consistent look

To add them, tap the video, then select “Effects” or “Filters.”

Step 7: Add Transitions (Optional But Cool!)

If you have more than one clip, try transitions! It makes the switch between clips smooth and stylish.

Just tap on the small white box between two clips in the timeline. Pick a transition you like and adjust its speed!

Step 8: Export It!

Once your masterpiece is done, it’s time to export (aka save it).

  1. Tap the arrow icon in the top right corner.
  2. Choose your desired resolution (1080p is best for Instagram).
  3. Frame rate? Stick with 30 FPS for smooth videos.
  4. Hit Export and wait a few seconds!

Now your video is saved and ready to upload to Instagram. 🎉

Step 9: Post to Instagram

Open Instagram and post your video:

  • For Reels: Tap the Reels icon and upload your video.
  • For Stories: Tap your profile photo and select your video from your gallery.

Write a caption, choose a cover image, add hashtags—and you’re ready to go!

Bonus Tips

  • Stay consistent: Use similar fonts and styles for your brand.
  • Use trending sounds: This helps you get more views!
  • Keep it under 15 seconds: Super short videos often perform best.

That’s it!

See? Formatting videos in CapCut for Instagram is easy and fun. The more you play around, the more confident you’ll get.

So go ahead—open CapCut and create something awesome. Your next viral Reel is just a few taps away!